Viruses possess all the following properties, except

Options

A. They are non-cellular organisms
B. Possess both DNA and RNA
C. Capsid protects nucleic acid
D. Have inert crystalline structure outside living cells

Answer

To solve the question regarding the properties of viruses, we will analyze each statement provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Viruses**:
- Viruses are unique entities that are classified as non-cellular organisms. They do not have a cellular structure like bacteria or eukaryotic cells.

2. **Analyzing the Properties**:
- **Statement 1**: "Viruses are non-cellular organisms."
- This statement is true. Viruses do not have a cellular structure.

- **Statement 2**: "Viruses possess both DNA and RNA."
- This statement is false. Viruses contain either DNA or RNA, but not both simultaneously.

- **Statement 3**: "Viruses have a capsid that protects the nucleic acid."
- This statement is true. The capsid is a protein coat that protects the viral nucleic acid.

- **Statement 4**: "Viruses have an inert crystalline structure outside living cells."
- This statement is also true. Viruses can form crystalline structures when outside a host cell.

3. **Conclusion**:
- Since the question asks for the property that viruses do not possess, the correct answer is **Statement 2**: "Viruses possess both DNA and RNA."

### Final Answer:
Viruses possess all the following properties, except they possess both DNA and RNA.

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